The National Industrial Court has stopped the Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN) from embarking on its planned industrial action against Dangote Petroleum Refinery and Petrochemicals FZE.
Justice Emmanuel Subilim, the presiding Judge, who ruled on an ex parte application by Dangote Refinery, stopped the defendants, including Nigeria National Petroleum Company Ltd (NNPCL), Nigeria Midstream and Downstream Petroleum, and the Nigeria Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission, from cutting crude and gas supply to Dangote Refinery.
Justice Subilim ruled that the situation favored the applicants, as the ongoing strike would irreparably damage their business and disrupt essential services to the Nigerian public.
The judge maintained that it was in the interest of justice to stop the respondents so as to maintain industrial peace and ensure the continued provision of essential services to the Nigerian public while the court hears and decides on the main lawsuit.
Justice Subilim directed that the restraining order be immediately served on the defendants, along with a notice of motion, and then scheduled a hearing for the motion on notice for October 13.
RN
